DNA, Genome and Protein Synthesis

• DNA - Deoxyribose Nucleic Acid

  • a polymer of nucleotides
• DNA is shaped in a double helix and is contained in chromosomes. Also known as a polymer of nucleotides.
• Bases of DNA:

  A-T

  C-G
• Gene= A section of the DNA that codes for a specific protein
• Genome= Entire genetic material of an organism
• Why we study human genomes:

  • Search genes linked to different types of disease
  • Understand inherited disorders and treatments for them
  • Trace human migration patterns from past
• A single nucleotide of the backbone made up of:

  • Deoxyribose sugar
  • Phosphate

  Attached to one of 4 bases

  
• Bases are bonded by hydrogen bonds
• mRNA= (messenger RNA) a molecule that carries the genetic code from the nucleus to the ribosomes
• Explain how Protein Synthesis works:


  1. DNA unwinds, and RNA copies a gene into mRNA, which leaves the nucleus.
  2. mRNA travels to the ribosome in the cytoplasm.
  3. tRNA pairs its anticodons with mRNA codons and delivers amino acids.
  4. The ribosome links amino acids with peptide bonds, forming a polypeptide chain that folds into a specific protein shape for its function.
• Chromosomes: A thread-like structure of DNA that carries genetic information in the form of genes.